Council negotiates improved landscaping for the Warrego

Concept drawing of landscaping and screening for the western entrance to Dalby that Council will commence planting next year as part of its Dalby East and West Landscaping Design with funding provided by the Department of Transport and Main Roads.Image credit: Laud Ink

A landscaping design that will welcome motorists to Dalby’s east and west entrances and provide screening for residents along the upgraded Warrego Highway has been approved by the Department of Transport and Main Roads (DTMR), with DTMR committing $1.5 million in funding to Western Downs Regional Council to deliver the works.

Council has successfully negotiated with DTMR to significantly increase the scope of landscaping originally planned as part of the current Warrego Highway Upgrade Program;

Council took the initiative to draft its own landscape designs with the aim of softening the impacts of the highway upgrade as well as beautifying the main entrances and thoroughfare through Dalby;

Council and DTMR worked in collaboration to agree on the landscaping design which has now been approved with a funding cap of $1.5 million;

The design will incorporate over 7,100 plants including trees, shrubs and ground cover with local nurseries already consulted on plant selection; and

Council will commence delivering the landscaping works in 2018 to align with ongoing construction works on the Warrego Highway Upgrade Program.

Western Downs Regional Council Spokesperson for Works and Technical Services Councillor Greg Olm said Council was very aware of the loss of landscaping features as a result of the much-needed Warrego Highway upgrade and had worked closely with DTMR to get the best possible outcome.

“Great liveability is a key priority for Council and we’ve invested a lot into beautifying our towns by rejuvenating our CBDs with vibrant garden beds and maintaining beautiful parks and open spaces,” he said.

Image credit: Laud Ink

“It’s important that the main entrances and thoroughfares through our towns are also welcoming and landscaped to a standard that meets our vision for the region.

“We didn’t want a concrete jungle and acted quickly to negotiate a better outcome for our residents as well as visiting motorists.

“The scope of landscaping has now been significantly increased and DTMR have committed $1.5 million in funding, awarding the works to Council to deliver next year. It’s a fantastic outcome!

“We’re now working on the project delivery plan including a local procurement strategy and canvassing local nurseries regarding capacity to supply.”